Help rehab orphaned wild birds and animals

1/21/2014

Help rehab orphaned wild birds and animals

The Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island needs the public's help with raising healthy, orphaned wild birds and animals. Wildlife rehabilitation classes are being offered - Feb. 10 and 11 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Rogers Free Library in Bristol.

This class, required by state regulation for licensing, will cover the proper way to raise orphaned baby squirrels, eastern cottontail rabbits, opossum and songbirds. It is the first step toward receiving a state permit.

Each year, the Wildlife Clinic of R.I. and its associated wildlife rehabilitators receive hundreds of orphaned baby animals and birds that must be raised to release age. As a result, a special level of licensing was created to allow trained individuals to assist. This in-depth course is designed to cover topics ranging from infant nutrition and feeding skills to housing and state regulations.

Class space is limited so pre-registration is required. Course fee is $25 for members and $40 for non-members. Visit to www.riwildliferehab.org. or call the Wildlife Clinic at 401-294-6363.